Abstract: A ring beam structure (100) for use in constructing a timber frame (101) for a building comprises a plurality of rows (100a, b, c) of timber beams (1). Each row (100a, b, c) forms a ring beam wherein at least one row comprises a floor stage and at least one further ring beam comprises a roof stage. The floor and roof stages are assembled at ground level and releasably secured together allowing the ring beam structure (100) to be lifted clear for construction of the ground floor wall structure (102b). The ring beam structure is then lowered and the floor stage attached to the ground floor wall structure (102b). The floor stage is then released and allowing the roof stage to be lifted clear off for construction of the upper wall structure (102a) on the floor stage. The roof stage can then be lowered and attached to the upper wall structure to complete assembly of the timber frame (101).

Abstract: A timber block for construction of load bearing walls has horizontal upper and lower timber members connected by vertical timber components spaced apart lengthwise of the block. The upper and lower timber members are provided with calibration markings between the timber components for cutting the block to size without cutting through the timber components. A panel of sheet material attached to the timber components on at least one side of the block is provided with incisions aligned with the calibration markings to assist cutting through the block.